How to Refine Native Clay for Pottery
A growing number of people seek to use what is available in nature for crafts and artwork. These people may feel that buying clay for their pottery compromises their art. Removing the sand, gravel and impurities from clay to prepare it for pottery throwing is a lengthy process, but doesn't require expensive equipment.
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- Large bucket or trash can
- Wide, shallow pan
- Heavy 1 inch wire grid larger than the shallow pan
- Window screen wire about the same size as the wire grid
- Drill with a mixer attachment (optional)
- Rubber spatula
- Canvas, denim or other porous material
Instructions
-
-
1
Dig the clay and allow it to dry completely.
-
2
Put enough clay in the bucket or trash can to fill it half way. Cover the clay with water and allow it to stand until it becomes mush. Don't stir during this step.
-
-
3
Stir the clay until it is a smooth, creamy consistency after it has soaked up the water and become mush. Add more water if needed. Use a drill with a mixer attachment, or stir by hand.
-
4
Place the one-inch wire grid on top of the shallow pan. Place the screen wire over the 1 inch grid. Pour the clay mixture through the screen wire to remove roots, rocks and other impurities. Use a rubber spatula to help force the clay through the screen wire if necessary.
-
5
Pour the clay into a clean bucket and allow to set 24 hours or until it has settled and become mush. Pour or siphon the water off the top and spread the mush evenly over canvas or denim.
-
6
Allow the clay to dry a few days until it is a workable consistency. Package in air tight plastic if you are not going to use it immediately.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Stirring the dry clay into the water prevents proper slaking (soaking to mush). Allow the clay to absorb the moisture before stirring.
In step 2, handle the dry clay without stirring up dust. Clay particles can irritate and damage the respiratory system.
References
- Photo Credit Photos.com/Photos.com/Getty Images
